Masthead Wins Inglis Premier Earning 2011 Blue Diamond Stakes Run

Lee Freedman’s improving two-year-old Masthead has come into calculation for the 2011 Blue Diamond Stakes after scoring a hard-earned win in the $250,000 2YO Inglis Premier (1200m) at Mornington this afternoon.

It was win to get in for the Written Tycoon colt who before today’s victory was well down the Blue Diamond Stakes order of entry in 28th spot.

Prize money from their Inglis Premier success should see Masthead charge up the Blue Diamond ballot and earn a shot at the $1 million showdown at Caulfield on February 26.

Earlier today Luxbet had Masthead as a $61 roughie in their Blue Diamond Stakes odds and punters that backed them at this price will be smiling as their quote is sure to firm right in.

In the Inglis Premier the Anthony Cummings-trained Emerald Downs speared across the field from their far outside barrier draw to hit the front and lead throughout the race.

After missing the jump, Masthead was ridden masterfully by champion hoop Craig Williams who went out wide to go forward early and sit into second position behind Emerald Downs.

On the turn for home Masthead put up the challenge and moved up to meet Emerald Downs, the pair battling it out down the straight up to two lengths clear from the rest of the field.

In a solid, tough performance Masthead ($4.20) charged to the lead and held on to defeat Emerald Downs ($11) by a long-neck while fellow Blue Diamond Stakes hopeful Delago’s Lad ($3.60 favourite) produced a late charge to finish a length away again third.

Masthead, purchased at the Inglis Yearling Sales for $65,000, has now broken his maiden status posting his first win from three career starts today and proving the 1200m Blue Diamond distance would be no issue.

Betting on the 2011 Blue Diamond Stakes has been briefly suspended but will reopen shortly at Luxbet.

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